yes you can reset the ecu but it probably wont make any difference.you should pull a fault code though,this might give you some ideas.with the ignition off bridge terminals t and e1 in the diagnostic box.turn on the ignition,but dont start the car,and count the flashes on the dash.you are looking for a flash pause,flash,pause continuously.this indicates the ecu has detected no problems.if not get back to us and we can go on from here.
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assuming there are no codes shown you can the think about the timing.with the terminals still bridged start the car.you will need a strobe
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.shine the light onto the crank pulleyand check the position of the marker.it should be on the centre mark 10 degrees btdc.if not adjust the distributor.when set at 10 remove the bridge wire and the timing should advance to more than 12degrees,past the right hand mark.thats it done simple really.get the timing set right and then investigate any other problems.otherwise you could waste hours hunting for things that dont exist.if you still get the popping with the timing adjusted my next step would be a vacuum leak